Highlighting the importance of service, Ohio University President Roderick J. McDavis recognized the work of university employees Wednesday, with a special thank you to outgoing Executive Vice President and Provost Kathy Krendl.

The acknowledgments occurred Wednesday at the Spring Appreciation Reception in the Baker Center Ballroom. McDavis holds the receptions twice a year to thank university employees for the work they do every day.

"The heart and strength of Ohio University is its people," he said at the event. "It's the people who every day work hard to make us the best university in this country."

McDavis acknowledged the impact Krendl has had on the university over her 13-year tenure. She takes over as president of Otterbein College in July.

"Years from now, people will look back at the turning point of the university, when it tried to focus itself, and they will look at the initial Vision OHIO document," he said, noting Krendl was pivotal in the creation of the strategic plan.

"We thank you for all you contributed to Ohio University," he added. "We will miss you, we celebrate your advancement and we look forward to seeing great things at Otterbein College."

Other faculty and staff members offered their thanks to Krendl.

Speaking for staff members in the Provost's Office, Associate Provost for Academic Affairs Marty Tuck said Krendl's leadership built a strong team of individuals who care about the university and want to see it succeed.

"Her actions have made this institution a better place," he said. "She is leaving a much better institution than which she came. Much of that is a credit to her leadership."

Faculty Senate Chair Joe McLaughlin, also the chair of the Department of English, noted Krendl's work ethic, indicating she worked long hours in her efforts to keep communication lines open and handle problems. He also acknowledged the contributions of Richard Gilbert, Krendl's husband, who teaches writing in the Department of English. McLaughlin noted both Gilbert and Krendl have had a big impact on the university and they would be missed.

Krendl, who said it was a difficult decision to leave the university, expressed gratitude for her experiences here.

"There are many wonderful people here. I learned a great deal -- you taught me a great deal," she said. "As I look back over the years, we've done some great things here. It's really been a great ride. I won't say I loved every minute of it, but I will say I learned every minute of it -- I learned a lot from all of you."